With the goal of streamlining students toward achieving their degree goals, the CSU is eliminating placement exams and noncredit remedial courses for incoming freshman.

These were previously required to measure and achieve minimum levels of competence in English and mathematics. Skills assessment instead will be based on high school grades and standardized test scores.

The changes are intended to improve graduation rates by eliminating unnecessary sidetracks for students. They are also aimed at increasing affordability of higher education, as remedial courses that do not count toward graduation requirements may delay graduation.

Executive Order 1110 has several implications for Fresno State:

• Developmental math courses will be redesigned
• Developmental courses will be credit bearing with "wrap around" services such as tutoring and supplemental instruction

The ELM/EPT placement tests will be eliminated. Instead, multiple methods of determining placement will be used.

A number of Fresno State mathematics faculty joined the provost, the dean of Undergraduate Studies, the director of the Center for Faculty Excellence, and the chair of the Undergraduate Curriculum Subcommittee at a system-wide summit in August to learn about strategies that might be used.

Anticipated possible implications for the CSU are increased graduation rates and reduced expense for students.